"NOURISHING EMOTIONS: THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DIETARY PATTERNS AND MOOD DISORDERS IN CHILDREN"

Abstract

Introduction: The relationship between diet, nutrition, and mental health in children has gained attention, particularly regarding mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. Childhood is a critical period for emotional development, and inadequate eating habits can negatively influence this process. Objective: This study aims to analyze the scientific literature from the last ten years on the relationship between diet, nutrition, and mood disorders in children, synthesizing key evidence and suggesting directions for future research. Methodology: A qualitative narrative review was conducted, searching for articles published between 2014 and 2024 in the SciELO, PubMed, LILACS, and Google Scholar databases. The descriptors “Childhood Nutrition,” “Mood Disorders,” “Nutrition,” and “Mental Health” were used. Studies directly addressing the relationship between nutrition and mood disorders in children were selected, prioritizing those with clear methodology and relevant findings. Results: The review shows that diets rich in ultraprocessed foods, refined sugars, and saturated fats are associated with a higher risk of mood disorders in children, due to inflammatory processes and neurochemical imbalances. In contrast, healthy dietary patterns, such as the Mediterranean diet, which includes fruits, vegetables, and fish, have a protective effect, helping to reduce depressive and anxious symptoms. Furthermore, socioeconomic and environmental factors influence access to healthy foods, affecting children's mental health. Conclusion: Dietary patterns play a crucial role in children's mental health, either increasing or reducing the risk of mood disorders. Promoting balanced eating habits from childhood is essential for emotional development and psychological well-being. However, further research is needed to deepen the understanding of the mechanisms involved and develop specific nutritional interventions for this age group.